Mastering sorptive extraction for GC–MS

For many GC–MS laboratories, sample preparation remains the biggest bottleneck. While traditional techniques like liquid–liquid extraction (LLE) and solid-phase microextraction (SPME) are well-established, they often force analysts to compromise on sensitivity, robustness, or automation capability, especially when dealing with complex matrices in food, environmental, and clinical research.

In this webinar, Rachael Szafnauer from Markes International will take a deep dive into the fundamentals and practical applications of modern sorptive extraction. She will explore how high-capacity sorptive extraction bridges the gap between exhaustive extraction and equilibrium sampling, offering a robust, complementary technique for trace-level GC–MS analysis.

You will learn how to select the right phase and extraction mechanism for your target compounds, how to optimize key parameters like temperature and agitation, and how coupling sorptive extraction with cryogen-free trap focusing can significantly boost sensitivity.

Key learning objectives:

• Understand the fundamental differences between SPME, TF-SPME, and high-capacity sorptive extraction (HiSorb) regarding surface area and sensitivity.
• Learn the considerations you must take when selecting the optimal sorptive phase and extraction mode (immersive vs. headspace) for your matrix.
• Discover how analyte enrichment using a backflush, cryogen-free focusing trap can overcome the limitations of standard injection techniques.
• See how these techniques are applied to complex samples, from aroma profiling in foods to contaminant monitoring.

Who should attend?

• GC–MS analysts and researchers looking to improve sensitivity and workflow efficiency.
• R&D aroma and flavor scientists wanting to enhance their ability to extract and analyze complex samples.
• Current users of SPME or stir-bar techniques looking for robust, high-capacity alternatives.
• Laboratory managers and directors interested in how advanced automation can provide a competitive edge.

Certificate of attendance

• If you attend the live webinar, you will automatically receive a certificate of attendance, including a learning outcomes summary, for continuing education purposes.
• If you view the on-demand webinar, you can request a certificate of attendance by emailing [email protected].

Presenter: Rachael Szafnauer (Product Marketing Manager, Markes International Ltd)

Rachael Szafnauer received an M.Sci in forensic science from the University of South Wales, UK, where her final-year project focused on fingerprinting emerging psychoactive substances using advanced techniques such as GCxGC–TOF MS, in collaboration with Markes International. She later took up the role of thermal desorption product specialist at Markes, providing technical and application support to the commercial team, before taking on her current role as Product Marketing Manager for the Centri product line and specializing in the development of applications using extraction and enrichment techniques for GC–MS.

Moderator: Olivia Long (Editorial Team, SelectScience)